Are you a newbie when it comes to winter sports? If you've never been on holiday to the mountains and snow before, your first winter sports holiday can be quite daunting. What follows are a few tips for the less experienced winter sports enthusiast.
Where to?
Of course, the first and most important question is: which destination are we going to?
Whether you want to go skiing, snowboarding or cross-country skiing, Austria is by far the most popular destination for a winter sports holiday. The Zillertal valley, in particular, is very popular, with the family-friendly Gerlos being the favourite destination. However, the Defereggental valley offers the most reliable snow cover.
France ranks second: it is also the most popular destination for Dutch people for a summer holiday. Val Thorens is particularly suitable for beginners, is family-friendly, and offers guaranteed snow. Families with children also like to visit the charming Châtel, in the Haute Savoie.
With destinations such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Winterberg and Oberstdorf, Germany is the third most popular winter sports country among the Dutch. Winterberg, in the Sauerland region, is only a three-hour drive from Maastricht and is ideal for a short winter sports holiday close to home. Winterberg may not offer the most snow certainty, but the Germans solve this with artificial snow.
Italy and Switzerland complete the top five most popular winter sports destinations.
What to pack?
When you go on a winter sports holiday, you'll probably take a few more suitcases than for your summer holiday. Ski trousers, jackets, warm jumpers, thermal underwear and thick socks simply take up more space than a pile of Bermuda shorts and bikinis. You'll probably not forget your skis, snowboard, ski poles, ski/snowboard boots and helmet. But don't forget your snow boots, hat and gloves! Besides your snow/sunglasses, you should also think about sun cream and aftersun – things you might not immediately associate with the word ‘winter sports’.
For your winter sports trip, your car will of course be fitted with winter tyres, and snow chains will be in the boot. A de-icer, an ice scraper, and a thermal blanket are also not luxuries to be without when you go on a winter sports holiday. Neither are a snow shovel and brush. Are you going to France? Then don't forget that you must carry a (certified) breathalyser with you!
As an experienced winter sports enthusiast, do you have any tips for newbies in this area? Share your travel tips and practical advice with our followers and leave a comment! Would you rather stay at home and are you looking for transport? A rent a van in the Sittard region Or rent another vehicle at Adrem!
